CONTACT: Gian Galassi,(608) 263-5561
ggalassi@uwhealth.org
Madison—One of the few female full professors of orthopedic surgery in the country, Dr. Tamara Scerpella, has been selected as this year’s recipient of the Woman in Science Award.
The American Medical Women’s Association (AMWA) will honor Scerpella at its 102nd annual meeting April 1, 2017. This award is given to a woman scientist who has made exceptional contributions to medical science, through her basic research, publications and leadership in the field.
Dr. Scerpella is a tenured professor of orthopedic surgery and the Ballantine Endowed Professor of Orthopedic Research at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health. She is chief of the division of sports medicine, vice chair of the department and team physician for the University of Wisconsin Badgers. She is also president of the Forum, the Society for Women Orthopedic Sports Medicine Specialists.
“For the past 20 years, Dr. Scerpella has concentrated her research efforts on understanding the role of physical activity in the development of bone mass, density, geometry and strength during childhood and adolescence,” said Dr. Theresa Rohr-Kirchgraber, associate professor of clinical medicine and pediatrics, executive director of the National Center of Excellence in Women’s Health at Indiana University and past president of AMWA. “As one of the few female full professors in orthopedic surgery in the United States, Dr. Scerpella’s influence reaches much beyond her local sphere. Her ability to informally mentor students and residents regionally and nationally is exceptional.”
Dr. Scerpella’s research goal is to improve lifelong bone health in women through childhood and adolescent ‘physical activity prescriptions.’ Her observational and interventional trials have resulted in more than two-dozen peer reviewed publications and nearly 50 national and international presentations. Through this work, Dr. Scerpella has provided research mentorship to more than 50 orthopedic surgery residents, medical and undergraduate students.
